countyscore
65.6
County Score
Safety 93.1Cost of Living 89.3Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Sharp County, Arkansas

Sharp County outpaces national livability

Sharp County's composite score of 65.6 significantly exceeds the national median of 50.0, placing it in the top third nationally. This 31% advantage makes it one of the more livable counties in the United States.

Arkansas's top-tier performer

Sharp County's score of 65.6 substantially outpaces Arkansas's state average of 47.9, ranking it among the state's best counties for livability. The county leads peers across multiple dimensions.

Safety, affordability, and water quality excel

Sharp County's safety score of 93.1 is exceptional—among Arkansas's safest counties—and its cost score of 89.3 delivers median rents of just $648/month and homes at $94,600. Water quality also rates excellent at 86.0.

Income and health need investment

Sharp County's income score of 5.2 reflects a median household income of just $42,950, the lowest among these eight counties. Health scores of 25.9 suggest room for improved health infrastructure and outcomes.

Perfect for safety-first, budget families

Sharp County is ideal for families prioritizing safe neighborhoods, affordable housing, and rural stability over high incomes. Those seeking strong public safety with minimal costs will find Sharp County exceptionally appealing.

Score breakdown

Tax76.8Cost89.3Safety93.1Health25.9Schools52.5Income5.2Risk31.9Water86Weather57.4
🏛76.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠89.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼5.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡93.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤25.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓52.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡31.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨46.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41.2
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Counties with similar scores

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Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area
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Franklin County
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Edmonson County
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Russell County
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Meagher County
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Nearby counties

Fulton County
Arkansas
51.4
Lawrence County
Arkansas
51.8
Randolph County
Arkansas
51
Izard County
Arkansas
56.4
Independence County
Arkansas
45
Oregon County
Missouri
60
Stone County
Arkansas
57.5
Jackson County
Arkansas
42.3

Deep Dives

Sharp County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Sharp County

via TaxByCounty

Sharp County taxes rank well below US average

Sharp County's 0.579% effective tax rate falls comfortably below the national median of 0.86%, placing it in the bottom quarter nationally. The median property tax of $548 represents just 20% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting both favorable rates and lower home values.

Slightly above Arkansas average

Sharp County's 0.579% effective rate exceeds Arkansas's state average of 0.532% by less than half a percentage point. Its median property tax of $548 falls below the state median of $705, placing it near the middle of the state's tax landscape.

Moderately taxed in this eight-county region

Sharp County's 0.579% rate and $548 median tax place it in the middle of the eight-county comparison. It taxes slightly higher than Sevier County (0.480%) but lower than Sebastian County (0.651%), despite having the lowest median home value at $94,600.

Expected annual tax on median home

A typical Sharp County homeowner with a $94,600 property pays approximately $548 annually in property taxes. Mortgage holders typically face about $578 annually, while non-mortgage owners pay closer to $517.

Appeal if your assessment seems high

Sharp County residents, like homeowners everywhere, may be sitting on overassessed properties without realizing it. Contact your assessor to request a reassessment—given Sharp County's modest home values, ensuring accurate assessment is especially important for protecting affordability.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sharp County

via CostByCounty

Sharp matches the national test

Sharp County renters spend 18.1% of income on housing, exactly matching the national average. With a median income of just $42,950—43% below the national figure—residents here manage affordable rents through lower overall cost of living.

Average affordability, lower costs

Sharp County's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio ties the Arkansas state average, though its $648 median rent is the lowest among these eight counties. This creates an unusual advantage: state-typical affordability with below-average rents.

Cheapest rents in the survey

Sharp County's $648 rent undercuts every other county in this comparison, including Sevier's $725 and Van Buren's $727. This rock-bottom rent makes it exceptionally affordable despite the region's lowest median income of $42,950.

Ownership costs less than rent

Sharp County homeowners pay just $581 monthly, $67 below what renters spend, making ownership surprisingly affordable. The median home value of $94,600 represents one of the lowest in the region, enabling homeownership on modest incomes.

Sharp excels for minimal budgets

If housing costs are your primary concern, Sharp County delivers rock-bottom rents and the lowest home values in this set. This rural county rewards those seeking maximum affordability in Arkansas.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sharp County

via IncomeByCounty

Sharp County faces income headwinds

Sharp County's median household income of $42,950 falls nearly $32,000 below the national median of $74,755, representing a 43 percent gap. The county ranks among the lower-income counties nationally, reflecting rural economic challenges.

Below Arkansas average earnings

At $42,950, Sharp County's median household income trails the Arkansas state average of $51,156 by $8,206. The county represents one of the lower-income communities statewide, with limited employment diversity.

Lowest income in immediate area

Sharp County households earn about $9,700 less than Sevier County ($51,641) and $13,500 less than Sebastian County ($56,450). The county faces the steepest income challenges among its regional peers.

Housing requires careful budgeting

Sharp County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.1 percent remains manageable, though affordability becomes tighter given the lower baseline income. With a median home value of $94,600, homeownership is relatively accessible but demands careful financial planning.

Strategic financial planning essential

Sharp County residents should prioritize debt reduction and consistent savings, even in modest amounts, to build financial resilience. Explore community development programs, small business support, and workforce training to increase earning potential over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sharp County

via CrimeByCounty

One of America’s Safest Counties

Sharp County boasts an exceptional safety score of 99.9. The total crime rate of 86.1 per 100K is a tiny fraction of the 2,385.5 national average.

Far Above Arkansas Safety Norms

Sharp County's safety score far exceeds the state average of 96.3. Its total crime rate is 96% lower than the Arkansas average of 2,326.8 per 100K.

Setting the Regional Standard

Sharp is significantly safer than neighboring Van Buren County, which reports a crime rate of 1,245.2. It represents the gold standard for security in the Ozark region.

Violent Crime is Nearly Nonexistent

Violent crime is extremely rare at just 11.5 incidents per 100K. Property crime is also remarkably low at 74.6, reflecting a very quiet and secure environment.

Simple Habits Maintain Peace

Residents enjoy great peace of mind but should maintain basic safety habits. Even in very safe areas, motion-sensor lights provide an easy layer of additional protection.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sharp County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy masks unmet health needs

Sharp County's 73.0-year life expectancy approaches the U.S. average of 76.4 years, but the county's 25.6% poor or fair health rate reveals significant daily struggle. This gap—between how long people live and how well they live—underscores the importance of chronic disease prevention and management.

Slightly ahead on years, aligned on wellness

Sharp County's 73.0-year life expectancy exceeds Arkansas's 72.3-year state average by a small margin, positioning the county in the middle tier statewide. However, its 25.6% poor or fair health rate remains elevated, indicating that extra years don't automatically mean better daily health.

Limited primary care, strong mental health support

Sharp County's 23 primary care providers per 100,000 residents rank among the lowest in the region, but its 200 mental health providers per 100,000 exceed nearby counties like Stone (174 per 100K). This imbalance means residents may find behavioral health care more readily available than preventive primary services.

Low uninsured rate, sparse doctor network

Sharp County's 10.9% uninsured rate sits near the state average, suggesting coverage itself isn't the primary barrier—rather, the availability of primary care providers is the constraint. With only 23 primary care doctors per 100,000 residents, wait times and travel distances likely deter routine visits.

Check your coverage status today

If you're among Sharp County's uninsured or underinsured, verifying your coverage through healthcare.gov or Arkansas Medicaid is the first step toward consistent care. Even with local provider shortages, having insurance removes cost as a barrier and unlocks telehealth options that can supplement in-person visits.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sharp County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Performing Schools in a Focused Setting

Sharp County operates a streamlined educational system with six public schools serving 2,847 students. Managed by just two districts, the landscape includes two elementary, two middle, and two high schools. This concentrated structure allows for a strong focus on student outcomes across the county.

Exceptional Graduation Rates and School Scores

Sharp County excels in academic metrics with a graduation rate of 94.2%, far exceeding the 87.0% national average. The school score of 54.3 also beats the state average of 51.9, supported by a per-pupil expenditure of $6,321. These figures indicate a highly effective educational environment that outperforms many of its neighbors.

A Strong Tradition of Charter Innovation

The Highland School District is the largest in the county, serving 1,612 students across three schools. Interestingly, two of the county's six schools are charters, representing 33.3% of the total educational landscape. This includes the Cave City High Career & Collegiate Preparatory School, which focuses on specialized student pathways.

A Mix of Town and Rural Schooling

The educational experience is split evenly between town and rural locales, with three schools in each setting. Average school size is 475 students, with Cherokee Elementary being the largest at 594 students. These moderate school sizes facilitate a balanced environment that is neither overcrowded nor isolated.

Relocate Near Arkansas’s Top-Tier Schools

With a graduation rate nearing 95%, Sharp County is a premier destination for families prioritizing academic excellence. Whether you prefer the rural outskirts of Highland or the town atmosphere of Cave City, the school quality provides a stable foundation for home values. Local districts offer a mix of traditional and charter options that appeal to modern parents.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sharp County

via RiskByCounty

Sharp County has moderate-to-low disaster risk

Sharp County's composite risk score of 68.07 places it below the national average, classifying it as relatively low-risk overall. However, the county faces significant exposure in certain hazard categories, particularly earthquakes and tornadoes. Compared to typical American counties, Sharp County residents experience below-average total disaster threat.

Middle-tier risk within Arkansas

Sharp County scores 68.07, moderately above Arkansas's state average of 55.51, placing it in the upper-middle range of state risk. The county faces somewhat elevated hazard exposure compared to other Arkansas areas. This positioning reflects heightened earthquake and tornado vulnerability relative to the state baseline.

Among the riskier nearby counties

Sharp County's score of 68.07 exceeds neighboring Stone County (49.87) but sits close to Sevier County (64.95). The county experiences notably higher earthquake risk (86.64) than most adjacent areas, setting it apart from immediate neighbors. Its tornado threat aligns with regional patterns at 76.30.

Earthquakes and tornadoes require attention

Sharp County faces significant earthquake risk at 86.64—substantially higher than most Arkansas counties and a primary structural safety concern. Tornado risk scores 76.30, creating secondary but serious spring and fall weather threats. Flood risk is moderate at 66.35, reflecting the county's terrain and drainage patterns.

Prioritize earthquake and windstorm insurance

Sharp County residents should strongly consider earthquake insurance given the exceptional 86.64 risk score—significantly higher than state average. Homeowners insurance should include robust windstorm and hail coverage for the 76.30 tornado risk. Structural reinforcement of foundations and secure fastening of heavy items can mitigate earthquake damage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sharp County

via WeatherByCounty

A Temperate Climate Above National Averages

Sharp County maintains an annual average temperature of 57.7°F, placing it well above the national median. This temperate climate is defined by its balance of four distinct seasons and 51.4 inches of annual precipitation.

Cooler Than the Arkansas Average

Despite being warm by national standards, Sharp County is cooler than the typical Arkansas county. Its 57.7°F average is 3.3 degrees lower than the statewide annual average of 61.0°F.

Comparing North Arkansas Neighbors

Sharp County shares a similar temperature profile with Washington County, which averages 57.8°F. However, it receives 6.7 inches of snow annually, which is more than many of its southern neighbors.

Cold Winters and Steamy Summers

Winters are chilly with a January average of 35.4°F, while summers feature 54 days of extreme heat over 90°F. The county sees a moderate summer average of 76.8°F from June through August.

Planning for Snow and Humidity

Residents should prepare for roughly 7 inches of snow and ensure home heating systems are ready for freezing January nights. During the summer, hydration is key as temperatures frequently exceed 90°F for nearly two months of the year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sharp County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Mollisols Characterize Sharp County Soil

Sharp County is distinguished by its Mollisols, a soil order often associated with grasslands and high natural fertility. Its 5.61 pH is more acidic than the national 6.5 benchmark but remains slightly higher than the state average.

Silt Loam Textures Provide Excellent Workability

Dominated by a silt loam texture, the soil contains 39.2% silt and 36.3% sand. This composition ensures the ground is easy to till while the low 13.9% clay content prevents it from becoming too heavy or sticky.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

The organic matter content reaches a remarkable 9.24%, more than doubling the Arkansas average of 4.15%. While available water capacity is slightly lower than the state average at 0.122 in/in, the rich organic profile fuels rapid plant growth.

Well Drained Land for Healthy Roots

Most soils here are classified as well drained, allowing water to move through the root zone without causing rot. As part of hydrologic group C, the soil still requires management to prevent surface runoff during intense rain events.

Ozark Foothills Gardening in Zone 7b

The rich Mollisols of zone 7b are ideal for intensive vegetable gardening and diverse forage for livestock. Sharp County residents enjoy some of the highest organic matter levels in the state, giving them a distinct head start.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sharp County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Sharp County's Grass Challenges

Sharp County earns a lawn difficulty score of 41.2, making it easier than the state average of 37.3 but tougher than the national median of 50.0. Located in Zone 7b, the county offers a distinct set of challenges for maintaining healthy turf. Success here requires a focus on soil health and drought management.

Temperate Days and Heavy Rainfall

With 54 extreme heat days, Sharp County is cooler than the Arkansas average of 64 days. However, the annual precipitation of 51.4 inches is slightly above the ideal 50-inch limit. This means you will likely spend more time managing drainage and potential fungal growth than in other parts of the state.

Working with Well-Drained Silt Loam

The county features well-drained silt loam soil, which is generally favorable for root development. However, the pH level of 5.61 is acidic and will require lime to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. A balanced blend of 36.3% sand and 13.9% clay provides a stable foundation if properly amended.

Adapting to Persistent Drought

Sharp County is currently in 100% severe drought (D2+), following a year where 31 weeks were spent in drought. This makes smart irrigation and water conservation strategies critical for lawn survival. Consider allowing your grass to go dormant during the worst of the summer to protect the crown.

Optimal Planting Windows in Zone 7b

Tall Fescue and Zoysia are excellent choices for the 7b hardiness zone and its 54 heat days. You should aim to seed after the last spring frost on April 14th to give your grass the best chance to establish. Fall is also a prime time for seeding Fescue to take advantage of cooler temperatures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sharp County's county score?
Sharp County, Arkansas has a composite county score of 65.6 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Sharp County rank among counties in Arkansas?
Sharp County ranks #1 among all counties in Arkansas on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Sharp County, Arkansas?
The median annual property tax in Sharp County is $548, with an effective tax rate of 0.58%. This earns Sharp County a tax score of 76.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sharp County?
The median household income in Sharp County, Arkansas is $42,950 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sharp County earns an income score of 5.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sharp County, Arkansas a good place to live?
Sharp County scores 65.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in Arkansas. The best way to evaluate Sharp County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Sharp County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.